caving

I think I should have kept quite about the nice sunny weather in last months chairman’s chat; August seems to have ended up a bit on the wet side. We still had a good time and luckily it stayed dry for our fab Summer BBQ Party. A big thank you goes out to Rhian for organizing it along with her helpers and volunteer cooks Mike and Lee –it’s not easy catering for over 30 people on a tight budget, but the event was a great success and enjoyed by all.

Speaking of Rhian I think she might have set a record last month, well since I have been in the club anyway by hosting 5 events in a single month. I will have to remember that one when it comes to giving out prizes at the AGM next year.

Don’t forget to reserve your Christmas party tickets, they’re going fast at the time of writing this – 32 places have been reserved so far. I will be reserving further tickets with the Double Tree to make more spaces available; it should be a great night and I hope to see as many of you there as possible.

There are lots of great events to look forward to this month: our trip to the Lakes, another trip down the mines and bowling, to name a few that I’m looking forward to attending.
Have a great month everyone 🙂

Ten IVC members went down to the copper mine at Alderley Edge. The mines stretch for 14 miles under the Cheshire countryside. Armed with helmets and head torches we descended into the depths of the mine. It was dry and surprisingly warm inside the mine. We travelled through tunnels, descended ladders, saw a copper river and large caverns. A few members managed to squeeze through a small hole (optional) and through the Hourglass! We traversed with ropes and slid down rocks. Our fantastic guides were the Derbyshire Caving club who were clearly experienced at showing beginners the delights of caving. We all came away after 3.5hrs in the cave saying what an amazing experience it was and a total bargain at only £10. The money goes towards the leasing and maintenance of the mines. Thanks Aidan for organising such a great event. I look forward to the next trip!

As I write this I’m looking forward to the Cilcain Village show tomorrow and pleased that it seems there’ll quite a good IVC turn out for what seemed at first a slightly random entry into the August diary. On reflection however, it’s really quite representative of what IVC is all about: sharing local hidden treasures, introducing new people to your own favourite places and events and making the most of some time off work and hopefully some good weather!

As autumn is upon us we have a busier diary for September, highlights including Aidan’s Alderley Edge caving trip and a weekend away. Thanks to Jo for organising the weekend in Derwentwater again; hopefully the weather will be kind and it will be a fun, sociable trip to this beautiful part of the lakes. We also have some good nights out planned, and the long awaited second part to the “Ye Olde Ale trail” in Chester. For anyone who missed the first part back in March, talk to any of the large group who took on an epic yet fairly civilised pub crawl around about ten of Chester’s “Heritage” pubs; it was an excellent day!

Don’t forget as well as the public Facebook page we have a private group; if you’re not currently in the group speak to one of the committee and we’ll make sure you’re added. It’s useful for reminders about event details, club night locations, sharing pictures and links and any short-notice items and imminent events. Remember the website and (public) Facebook page are important tools for raising the club profile and attracting new members so interacting with them when you can is appreciated.
Finally, a warm welcome this month to new member Bethany Millen!
Kay